FRANKFORT, Ky. – Governor Steve Beshear announced today that he has appointed Larry Bond to serve as his Chief of Staff. Bond, who currently serves as deputy chief of staff, fills the position previously held by Mike Haydon, who passed away suddenly earlier this month.

“We are still grieving the loss of Mike, but we know that Mike would have told us to pick ourselves up and get back to work on behalf of our citizens,” said Gov. Beshear. “Larry has been a close advisor since he joined our office, and he has not only a keen understanding of policy and statewide issues, he also has a deep love for his home state. He’s the right person to step into this enormous role at a very difficult time.”

Bond was named Deputy Chief of Staff in September 2010 to assist Mike Haydon. Prior to that, he served as both Commissioner and later Deputy Secretary of the Department of Public Protection, which oversees 11 agencies tasked with the common goal of protecting the public.

Bond has a long career in local and county governments. He served as the chief administrative officer for the Jefferson County Government, as chief deputy and chief operating officer for the Jefferson County Circuit Clerk’s Office, and as director of administration with the rank of colonel for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

He graduated from the Western Kentucky University Sheriff’s Academy and attended the University of Louisville and Kentucky Wesleyan University. He is a U.S. Army veteran and was decorated for his service during the Vietnam War.

Bond is a native of Butler County and currently resides in Louisville. His appointment is effective today. Gov. Beshear plans to name another Deputy Chief of Staff later.